Time Travel at Veste Coburg

History You Can Touch

The Veste Coburg, the "Franconian Crown," towers over the Upper Franconian residence city of Coburg and is considered one of the largest and best-preserved castle complexes in Germany. Once a year, the castle opens its courtyards for a historical spectacle: "Time Travel at Veste Coburg", organized by the Art Collections of Veste Coburg. For two days, living history groups from all over Germany bring two historically decisive eras back to life.

Two Eras in Focus

The staging deliberately concentrates on two phases that shaped the Veste: around 1500, when the castle was the princely seat of the Saxe-Coburgs, and the 17th century, when it served as an important Protestant fortress during the Thirty Years' War. History groups authentically reconstruct the daily life and warfare of these eras: craftsmen demonstrate leatherwork, chainmail, armor, and weapons based on historical models.

Musketeers, Cannons, Music

Armed demonstrations are the spectacular part of the event: musketeers, cannons, pikemen, and riders demonstrate historical combat techniques. The artillery demonstrations are staggered – the program lists 11:30 AM–1:00 PM and 4:00 PM–5:45 PM as main times. In addition, music groups play Renaissance and Baroque music, children can try on armor, and visitors can stroll through the camps.

Coburg and its Residence

Coburg is the former residence city of the Saxe-Coburg ducal line – the cityscape is characterized by the combination of the historic Veste, the Baroque city center, and the unusually close connection to the British royal family (Prince Albert came from Coburg). The time travel makes this dual identity tangible: princely residence and fortress in a historical portrayal.